When summer gardens are in full bloom, there’s one dish that brings together everything fresh, crunchy, and zingy — Marinated Cucumbers Onions and Tomatoes. This vibrant and refreshing salad is the ultimate side dish for hot days, BBQ nights, or when you simply want something crisp and tangy on your plate. With the punch of vinegar, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the clean crunch of cucumbers, this marinated salad wins every time.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or looking for a light weeknight side, this recipe delivers in flavor, texture, and simplicity. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can tweak the ingredients, adjust the seasoning, and even toss in a few extras without losing its classic appeal.
Discover great ideas like this refreshing Kale Crunch Salad Chick-Fil-A Copycat if you’re craving more healthy, garden-fresh dishes.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh ingredients that burst with flavor
The base of this recipe — marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes — is all about using the best summer produce. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and slivers of sharp onion are bathed in a simple vinegar dressing that lets every ingredient shine. The result is a dish that’s light, hydrating, and layered with natural sweetness and acidity.
- Cucumbers provide crunch and coolness
- Tomatoes bring a juicy, sweet burst
- Onions add a little zip and depth
- Vinegar marinade ties it all together with tang
Using fresh parsley or dill enhances the herbaceous notes while crushed red pepper flakes kick in a subtle heat.
Perfect balance of tang, crunch, and zest
What sets marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes apart from other salads is the texture contrast and flavor pop. The vinegar-soaked onions mellow out, the cucumbers stay snappy, and the tomatoes soften just slightly as they absorb the bold marinade.
This salad is also:
- Low-calorie and hydrating
- Great for meal prep — it gets better the longer it sits
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan
- Budget-friendly and zero waste — perfect for using up extra veggies
Don’t miss our Tzatziki Chickpea Salad for another Mediterranean-inspired option that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Total time breakdown
One of the best things about Marinated Cucumbers Onions and Tomatoes is how quickly it comes together. With just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, you’ll have a fresh, tangy salad ready to marinate in the fridge. No stove, oven, or complex prep needed.
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prep Time (Chopping) | 10 minutes |
| Mixing & Marinating | 5 minutes |
| Chilling (Recommended) | 2–4 hours |
| Total Time | ~15 minutes active, 2–4 hours passive |
If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute chill will still give decent flavor, but letting the marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes rest in the fridge for a few hours (or even overnight) allows the veggies to absorb the full punch of the marinade.
Ideal time to marinate for best flavor
The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor. Here’s a quick guide:
| Marination Time | Flavor Strength |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Light, refreshing |
| 2–4 hours | Fully balanced, bold |
| Overnight | Deep, pickled-like |
Pro Tip: Use glass jars or airtight containers to seal in the tangy freshness and keep the vegetables crisp.
Learn more about chilled veggie bowls in this Roasted Veggie Hummus Bowl, perfect for pairing with your cucumber salad.
Ingredients
Fresh produce list
To make the most flavorful marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes, start with fresh, vibrant vegetables. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, or mixed – halved)
- 1 large English cucumber (sliced into thin rounds)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced into rings or half-moons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
These ingredients form the colorful, crunchy base of this summer salad. The contrast between juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and zingy onions makes every bite pop.
You can also use grape tomatoes, mini cucumbers, or even heirloom varieties if you’re going for extra flair.
Marinade essentials
The real magic in marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes lies in the simple yet bold marinade. Here’s what to mix:
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional for a sweet balance)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 clove garlic (minced) – optional but recommended for punch
| Ingredient | Substitute Options |
|---|---|
| Apple cider vinegar | Rice vinegar or white wine vinegar |
| Olive oil | Avocado oil or grapeseed oil |
| Sugar | Honey or agave syrup |
| Red pepper flakes | Fresh chili or cayenne |
Combine these in a bowl or jar and shake/stir until the sugar dissolves and everything is well blended.
Looking for inspiration? Try this savory Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo — it pairs beautifully with this salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the vegetables
Creating this vibrant bowl of marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes begins with prepping the veggies the right way. Here’s how to make each ingredient shine:
- Wash and dry your produce
- Rinse the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion under cold water. Pat dry to prevent extra water from watering down your marinade.
- Slice the cucumbers
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut thin, even rounds. Leave the peel on for extra crunch, or peel if preferred.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes
- Slice them lengthwise to expose the juicy interior, allowing them to absorb the marinade better.
- Slice the onion
- Use a red onion for a slightly sweet, less harsh bite. Slice into thin rings or half-moons for even flavor distribution.
- Chop herbs
- Finely chop fresh parsley or dill for that bright, herbaceous finish.
Mixing and storing the marinade
Now that your vegetables are prepped, let’s bring it all together with the marinade:
- Whisk the marinade
- In a medium bowl or mason jar, combine vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Mix or shake until fully combined.
- Layer the veggies
- In a large bowl or a jar, layer cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Sprinkle the herbs throughout.
- Pour in the marinade
- Slowly pour the dressing over the vegetables. Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix and ensure everything is coated.
- Chill and marinate
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4. Stir once halfway to keep all veggies evenly soaked.
| Tip | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use a glass jar | Mason jars work perfectly for shaking and storing |
| Stir occasionally | Helps veggies marinate evenly |
| Don’t overmix | Gentle stirring keeps tomatoes intact |
Check out our healthy twist in this Carrot Apple Salad — a sweet counterpart to the tangy cucumber mix.
How to Serve
Side dish ideas
Marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes make an excellent side dish for almost any meal, especially during the warmer months. Their crisp texture and zippy vinegar flavor complement hearty mains and lighten up richer foods. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this dish:
- Next to grilled meats: Serve with steak, burgers, grilled chicken, or ribs to balance out smoky, savory flavors.
- With sandwiches or wraps: This salad adds the perfect acidic crunch next to deli-style sandwiches, chicken salad wraps, or turkey clubs.
- As a picnic or potluck side: It’s ideal for gatherings because it doesn’t wilt quickly and stays fresh even after a few hours out.
If you’re planning a summer spread or BBQ table, this vibrant salad deserves a front-row seat.
Pairing with meats and sandwiches
Because of its tangy bite, marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes pair especially well with proteins. Try these combinations for a flavorful and balanced plate:
| Main Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Grilled lemon chicken | Citrus and vinegar layers enhance each other |
| Pulled pork or BBQ ribs | Cuts through the richness with sharp acidity |
| Salmon or baked white fish | Refreshes the palate between bites |
| Mediterranean-style turkey wraps | Adds brightness and crunch |
Looking for more seasonal eats? Try this Pineapple Cucumber Salad for a tropical spin on your veggie sides.
Want to get fancy? Serve it over a bed of mixed greens with crumbled feta and olives for a Greek-inspired bowl.
Additional Tips
Best cucumbers and tomatoes for this recipe
Using the right varieties of produce can elevate the flavor and texture of your marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes.
✅ Best cucumber types:
- English cucumbers – Thin skin, fewer seeds, and a mild flavor make them perfect for marinating. No peeling required.
- Persian cucumbers – Crunchy and snackable, these are ideal if you want smaller bites.
- Garden cucumbers – Also great, but peel and deseed them for the best result.
✅ Top tomato choices:
- Cherry tomatoes – Sweet, bite-sized, and soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Grape tomatoes – Slightly firmer, less juicy, great for maintaining shape.
- Heirloom tomatoes – Bursting with flavor but best used when you’re eating the salad fresh (not for long marinating).
Always aim for firm, ripe produce. Overripe tomatoes or soggy cucumbers can turn your salad mushy after marinating.
Mistakes to avoid when pickling
Even though this is an easy dish, a few common mistakes can mess with the flavor or texture. Keep these pro tips in mind:
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Using too much vinegar | Overpowers the vegetables and can taste sharp |
| Over-salting | Salt pulls water out of veggies—can make it watery |
| Not letting it chill enough | Flavors won’t develop fully without at least 2 hours |
| Using plastic containers | Acidic vinegar can react with some plastics—use glass |
This salad should be crisp, balanced, and never soggy. If it’s too tangy, mellow it with a touch of honey or sugar.
Check out our Hot Honey Chicken Bowl — it’s a spicy-sweet combo that complements this crisp marinated salad perfectly.
Recipe Variation
Add-ins like feta, herbs, or olives
The beauty of marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes lies in its versatility. You can keep it simple or upgrade it with extra ingredients to suit your taste or match your main dish.
Here are some delicious variations you can try:
| Add-in | Flavor Boost |
|---|---|
| Feta cheese | Adds salty creaminess, Greek-style flair |
| Sliced black olives | Brings a briny depth that enhances the tang |
| Fresh basil or mint | Adds aromatic freshness and summer vibes |
| Chickpeas | Makes it heartier and more protein-rich |
| Avocado chunks | Creamy contrast to the crisp veggies |
| Sliced radishes | Extra crunch and peppery punch |
These additions blend seamlessly into the base of marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes while elevating the complexity and nutrition of the dish.
Try mixing and matching for fun seasonal combinations. A feta + olive + cucumber combo leans Greek. A chickpea + mint + tomato version leans more Middle Eastern.
Sugar-free and low-sodium options
Watching your sugar or salt intake? This salad easily adapts to meet your dietary needs.
- Sugar-Free Version: Skip the sugar or swap it for a splash of stevia, monk fruit, or simply use naturally sweet tomatoes.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use reduced-sodium salt or leave it out altogether. A splash of lemon juice adds brightness without extra salt.
Even without the sugar or salt, the vinegar and natural flavors of the veggies will still shine. That’s what makes marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes such a healthy, customizable favorite.
Don’t miss our Mediterranean Veggie Bowls if you want more ideas for veggie-packed, build-your-own meal options.
Freezing and Storage
Fridge shelf life
Marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes keep beautifully in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, and summer picnics.
Here’s how to store them the right way:
- Refrigerator Storage:
- Store the salad in an airtight glass container or mason jar.
- Keeps fresh for 3 to 5 days.
- Stir gently each day to redistribute the marinade.
| Storage Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use glass containers | Avoids vinegar reacting with plastic |
| Label with date | Helps track freshness |
| Store in shallow bowls | Promotes even marination |
Over time, the onions and cucumbers will become slightly more pickled. This deepens the flavor but also softens the texture. For best texture, consume within 72 hours.
Can you freeze this dish?
While many dishes freeze well, marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes is not freezer-friendly. Freezing changes the structure of cucumbers and tomatoes, causing them to become mushy and watery when thawed.
If you have leftovers you won’t eat in time, here’s what to do instead:
- Strain the veggies from the marinade
- Use them as a topper for grain bowls, wraps, or bruschetta within 2 days
- Repurpose into a tangy salsa or stir into pasta salads
The vinegar base will stay good, but the fresh veggies won’t hold up after freezing.
Learn more about prepping ahead and smart storage in recipes like our Savory Garlic Butter Chicken with Fresh Zucchini and Sweet Corn — perfect for make-ahead meal planning.
Special Equipment
Tools to simplify the process
One of the many reasons people love making marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes is because it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. But if you want to make prep easier and faster, here are some handy kitchen tools to consider:
| Tool | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Mandoline slicer | Creates ultra-thin, uniform cucumber slices quickly |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Essential for clean, even cuts of tomatoes and onions |
| Cutting board | Use a non-slip board for safety and control |
| Mixing bowl | A large glass bowl allows for easy tossing and coating |
| Mason jar or glass container | Ideal for marinating and storing without plastic taste |
If you plan to make this salad regularly, investing in a mandoline slicer is a game-changer for both speed and appearance.
Optional mason jar or airtight container
For both marinating and storing, using a mason jar or a glass storage container makes a big difference. Vinegar-based marinades can break down plastic over time, potentially affecting both flavor and freshness.
Why mason jars are ideal:
- Easy to shake and mix ingredients
- Airtight seal keeps the salad crisp
- Clear container shows when it’s fully marinated
You can prep and serve straight from the same jar—less cleanup, more style!
Looking for more time-saving meal ideas? Check out our Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites — no equipment needed for this easy dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make tomato onion and cucumber with vinegar?
It’s super simple! Start by slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Then, whisk together a basic marinade using vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar), olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Toss everything together and refrigerate for a few hours. The result? A crisp, tangy bowl of marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes bursting with flavor.
How long will cucumbers and onions in vinegar last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, cucumbers and onions marinated in vinegar will stay fresh for up to 5 days. However, for best texture and crunch, it’s ideal to eat them within the first 72 hours.
What is a cucumber tomato onion salad called?
This dish goes by a few names — some call it cucumber tomato onion salad, others refer to it as marinated vegetable salad, or simply pickled cucumbers and onions with tomatoes. It’s a staple in many summer cookouts and Mediterranean-style meals.
Can I mix tomatoes and cucumbers together?
Absolutely! In fact, marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes prove how delicious this combo can be. Just remember that tomatoes can release liquid, so serve within a few days for the best taste and texture.
How long do cucumbers last in vinegar?
Once cucumbers are soaked in vinegar, they take on a quick-pickled quality and can last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. The vinegar acts as a preservative, keeping them crisp and flavorful.
Are cucumbers soaked in vinegar good for you?
Yes — in moderation. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while vinegar may help regulate blood sugar and digestion. Just be cautious if you’re watching your sodium intake, as some recipes include salt for flavor.
Looking for more veggie-packed recipes? Try our Roasted Veggie Hummus Bowl for another nutritious, flavor-rich option.
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Marinated Cucumbers Onions and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This crisp, tangy marinated salad of cucumbers, onions and tomatoes is a perfect summer side dish. Made with a simple vinegar dressing and ready in just minutes, it’s ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry all produce.
- Slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Halve cherry tomatoes.
- Slice red onion into rings or half-moons.
- Chop fresh parsley or dill.
- In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
- In a large bowl or container, layer cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Sprinkle in herbs.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables. Toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir once halfway through marination.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Use glass containers for best flavor preservation.
- For added protein, stir in chickpeas.
- Add crumbled feta and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- Best enjoyed within 72 hours for peak texture.
- Not recommended for freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-cook, Marinated
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Keywords: marinated cucumbers, onions and tomatoes, cucumber tomato salad, vinegar salad, summer side dish, pickled vegetables, tomato onion cucumber salad, garden salad, marinated vegetable salad
Conclusion
Marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes are the kind of side dish that effortlessly fits into any meal. Refreshing, tangy, and bursting with natural summer flavors, it’s a go-to for BBQs, light lunches, and weeknight dinners alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish proves that fresh produce and a simple marinade can create something truly delicious.
Whether you’re looking to prep ahead, eat more vegetables, or impress at your next potluck, this salad delivers bold flavor and effortless charm. It’s customizable, healthy, and downright addictive once the vinegar works its magic.
Looking for more seasonal eats? Try this Pineapple Cucumber Salad to mix things up with tropical flavor.